What is flat roofing?

Written by No Doubt Marketing

Flat roofing has been used for centuries in areas of the world where temperatures are high and the cost of roofing is important to homeowners. Flat roof installation is fairly inexpensive compared to other forms of roofing such as tile, slate or metal and it is even less expensive than composite shingles. There are several different types of flat roofing materials available, each with their own benefits.

Flat Roofing Materials

Flat roofing can be made of several different types of materials. Historically, flat roofs have been made of built-up asphalt and coal tar pitch. Unfortunately, flat roofing installation using these materials can be very harmful to the installer due to the toxic and noxious fumes that are emitted from the tar and asphalt materials.

Alternatives to asphalt and tar flat roofing include recycled and synthetic rubber materials, and liquid membrane cold flat roofing materials. These modern materials are easy to maintain and offer seamless flat roofing installation.

Another new phenomenon in flat roofing in recent years is the green eco flat roof, which is made of grasses and other plant materials that grow on top of the roof, similar to sod roofs. Recent interest in eco-friendly building materials and methods to lower carbon footprint impact have given rise to this kind of innovative flat building material.

Benefits of Flat Roofing

For many homeowners, the benefits of utilizing flat roofing installation boil down to economy and ease of installation. Many homes built in the 1950s have flat roofs. In actuality, the roofs are not totally flat, but instead have a slight slope downward that prevents pooling of rainwater on the roof, which might prove damaging.

One benefit to installing a flat roof is that this style of roof allows easy access to air conditioners and they are very easy to construct. Often within a matter of a few days, an entire flat roofing installation can be completed.

Flat roofs are attractive to urban homeowners who may have limited space available for entertaining or outdoor recreational use. Homes with flat roofs are able to use that space as a terrace or garden. Additionally, some homeowners have found that using a flat roofing installation that takes advantage of eco-friendly methods such as green roofing or recycled materials reduces their carbon footprint. Also, green roofing, such as sod roofing, can reduce heating and cooling costs.

Another benefit to having a flat roofing installation is that this type and style of roof makes installing solar panels extremely easy. For homeowners who are cost and green conscious, this is a substantial benefit.

Summary

Many homes constructed in the 1950s have flat roofs and flat roof installation is quick and relatively easy. Building materials for flat roofing include traditional tar or asphalt. More recent flat roofing materials include recycled or synthetic rubber products or environmentally friendly green roofing such as sod or other plant materials that grow on the roof surface. Flat roof installation can take place within a matter of days and requires little maintenance other than making sure that pooled water is drained off the surface.

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